One of the primary topics of discussion was the adjustment of meeting times for larger public meetings. The council noted the current 6 PM start time might be inconvenient for working families, potentially limiting their participation. A motion was proposed and unanimously passed to recommend changing the start time of meetings to 6:30 PM. This adjustment is intended to provide families with more flexibility, making it easier for them to attend after fulfilling work and family obligations. The council members expressed hope that this change would lead to increased community engagement by aligning meeting times more closely with other city events, simplifying schedules for those wishing to attend.

Childcare provisions at meetings were another focal point. Members discussed the necessity of offering childcare during these gatherings to remove barriers for parents wishing to participate. Collaborations with local organizations, such as the high school’s Honor Society, which previously provided childcare during school events, were suggested as potential solutions. The council also considered partnering with Parent-Teacher Organizations (PTOs) to ensure childcare availability.

The council explored various strategies to foster deeper connections with the community beyond meeting time adjustments. Suggestions included hosting meetings in non-traditional settings, such as community centers or popular local events like high school performances, to engage with residents in more informal settings. By setting up listening sessions or tables at events like the Turkey Trot or band concerts, the council aims to gather feedback in a relaxed atmosphere and encourage more interaction with community members.

To support these initiatives, the council discussed the need for a structured calendar of school activities, enabling members to attend and engage at various events. A proposal was introduced for council members to “adopt” schools. However, the feasibility of this idea was debated, given the diverse activity levels at different schools.

The council also highlighted the importance of improving communication channels, particularly concerning the usability of their website. Issues such as broken links and missing information were identified as obstacles to effective communication. The council agreed to address these concerns formally, recognizing that recent turnover in the IT department might have contributed to these problems. Ensuring the website is user-friendly and up-to-date was emphasized as crucial for facilitating community engagement.

Amidst these discussions, the council acknowledged the importance of setting realistic goals, particularly in light of the limited time remaining in the academic year. Members proposed aiming for a 25% increase in parent and community attendance at school committee meetings by year’s end, while also considering an 80% attendance rate across all district activities. Recognizing the challenges of parent engagement due to busy schedules, the council stressed the need for small, consistent steps towards these goals rather than attempting significant leaps.

While supporting these groups and promoting their events is essential, the council emphasized that the ultimate responsibility for outreach should not rest solely on them. Building a reciprocal relationship with these organizations was articulated as a long-term aspiration, but the immediate focus is on practical, actionable goals.